March 18, 2026, MORRIS, IL – Sometimes the path to a lifelong career begins with a small moment. For Perinatal Educator and Registered Nurse Julie Kerr, that moment came in high school when a career aptitude test suggested she pursue a service-based profession. The results, along with her strong desire to help others, helped Kerr decide that a career in healthcare might be the path for her.
Thankfully for the many staff members who have benefited from her knowledge and the patients who have received her compassionate care, the Wilmington resident chose to become a registered nurse who today serves as perinatal educator in the Morris Hospital Family Birthing Suites. In recognition of her many contributions to Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers, Kerr has been named March Fire Starter of the Month.
Manager of the Family Birthing Suites, Theresa Reese-Moss, says that Kerr is an invaluable member of the team who is always willing to share her expertise and support her colleagues.
“Julie is a wonderful employee who consistently goes above and beyond to help anyone in need,” says Reese-Moss. “Her knowledge is exemplary, and she is the go-to person when questions arise. She always takes the time to ensure people truly understand what she is teaching them. Her kindness and approachability make colleagues feel comfortable coming to her for guidance, which ultimately helps strengthen the care we provide.”
For Kerr, Morris Hospital has been home for the majority of her career. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Northern Illinois University in 2002, Kerr began working in the Family Birthing Suites at Morris Hospital. She also briefly worked at a fertility clinic while staying on at Morris Hospital, an experience that she says helped her learn a great deal about pregnancy and the reproductive cycle.
In her role as a perinatal educator, Kerr serves as a valuable resource for staff throughout the hospital. She helps educate staff in other departments that may be involved in the care of pregnant women or recently delivered patients. She is also involved in many quality improvement projects, helping with competency days, reviewing policies, and helping run drills and simulations.
In addition to her educator responsibilities, Kerr still spends part of her time caring for patients in the Family Birthing Suites, allowing her to stay closely connected to the work happening at the bedside. She says she has had the privilege of helping bring countless new lives into the world.
In nominating Kerr for Fire Starter, Family Birthing Suites Charge RN Colleen Perkins praised Julie for her commitment to educating the department and providing hands-on support.
“Julie makes a difference in our unit because of her willingness to help anyone in need. She is a trusted resource and never hesitates to step away from her office to help us in the unit,” says Perkins. “Julie displays all the qualities this award is intended to recognize. She is truly deserving of this award, and we want her to feel how appreciated she is.”
In early civilizations, fire starters were individuals who had the important job of keeping the flame alive. With over 1,500 employees, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is the largest employer in Grundy County.